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Baader Hyperion Mark-III Clickstop Zoom Eyepiece 8-24mm # HYP-ZOOM 2454824

4.6 (43 Reviews) Read Reviews Write Review
Brand Baader Planetarium
Part Number 2454824
Availability available

Product Info

Manufacturer Description

The Baader Hyperion 8-24mm Clickstop Zoom continues the Hyperion tradition of delivering top-of-class performance and quality, at very reasonable prices. Zoom eyepieces have earned a lackluster reputation over the years, due to their compromises in optical design and execution. We think the Hyperion zoom will surprise many jaded zoom users with its combination of performance, quality, and novel features.

Some highlights of the Hyperion Clickstop Zoom:

• Consisting of 7 elements, the Hyperion optical design delivers outstanding sharpness and color correction over its wide flat field, even with fast telescopes. Users are reporting that the Clickstop Zoom matches the performance of their best fixed focal length eyepieces!

• Continuously variable focal length, with click-stops at 8, 12, 16, 20, 24mm. Remains approximately parfocal across zoom range. Click-stops enable precise focal length matching for bino-viewer use.

• Wide field. The field of view is 68 degrees at the 8mm setting, and 50 degrees at 24mm.

• Excellent viewing comfort. The eye relief of 12-15mm, large eyelens, and freedom from kidney beaning and blackouts result in a high level of comfort and ease-of-viewing, at all focal lengths.

• As with the fixed focal length Hyperions, Baader Planetarium has gone to great lengths to give the Hyperion Zoom the most advanced multicoatings ever used on amateur telescope eyepieces. The Hyperion Phantom Group multi-coatings truly rival the best in the world - including the famous Zeiss Abbe Orthoscopic! The difference in contrast and transmission is clearly visible at the eyepiece.

• Includes both 1.25" and 2" barrels. The 2" barrel attaches through an included adapter ring that has standard 2"x24tpi SCT threads. The 2" barrel also incorporates a reverse taper groove for better seating and retention.

• Superb fit and finish. Zoom motion is smooth and precise. Barrels are accurately machined, with excellent surface quality, and hard anodizing. The 1¼" Barrel is threaded for standard 1¼" filters, and the 2" Barrel for standard 2" Filter.

• Adjustable rubber eyecup works for both normal and eyeglass users. Rotating eyecup incorporates a variable-height helical adjustment with clickstop positions for setting the optimal spacing.

• Designed to integrate perfectly with many popular spotting scopes from Celestron/Synta (M35) and Zeiss (M45). Reaches focus on these spotting scopes even for very shortsighted observers.

• Complete System of Accessories for Digital Imaging as a high quality variable magnification projection optic:
   • Optically Superb for Digital Imaging
   • Direct Thread attach to Eyepiece (M43 threads at eyelens)
   • Hyperion Digital T-Rings, for direct attachment of virtually every digital camera, camcorder, CCD Camera.

Features of the new Mark III Version:

• Optical quality further enhanced by optimizing the curve geometry of inner lenses

• Internal zoom actuators and lens group centering made more rigid while allowing less play

• Thermal response of mechanical system further improved with thermally matched metal components to allow use under even harsher environmental conditions

• Greaseless movement of internal zoom lens group

• Clickstop mechanics improved with greater smoothness and almost noiseless operation

• Focal zoom positions optimized and refocusing requirements minimized

• Dust protection enhanced throughout and front (telescope side) lens-group actuator sealed

• Eyelens-group made watertight to seal eyepiece from rain during terrestrial operation

• Large eyerest rubber cover redone to make the eyerest scratchproof for eyeglasses

• Eyerest height adjustment made greaseless with step-curved click rest - as found on high quality binoculars

• Now optimized for Binoviewer use. The adjustable height eyerest assembly is now fully detachable for creating "nose space" when using two Zooms in a binoviewer. A pair of Zooms now provides the ultimate eyepiece set for binoviewing.

• M43 threading accepts popular astigmatism correctors

• Small Hyperion rubber eyecup added to fit M43 thread

• Camera adapter thread changed from SP 54 to M43 (SONY) for a variety of afocal camera adaptations

Accepts photo-adapter HTA43T2 (M42x0.75) for easy and rigid adaptation of various DSLR-T-Mount rings (sold separately)

Owners of Celestron/Synta and Zeiss spotting scopes will appreciate the direct-attachment made possible by the Hyperion Zoom's innovative removable front barrel, which exposes spotting scope attachment threads.

Like the fixed focal length Hyperions, the Hyperion MKIII Zoom eyelens barrel has been provided with an M43 attachment thread (covered by the removable eyerest assembly). To adapt the zoom to a Camera's T-ring for classical eyepiece projection, all that is needed is an HTA43T2 Adaper ring (sold separately).

Available Separately: A complete system of M54 adapter rings enables cameras to be directly (and rigidly) close-coupled to your camera's lens filter threads for Afocal Eyepiece Projection. A series of 16 threaded rings provides compatibility with just about every digital (CCD/DSLR) and videocamera made. Please Note: The Mark III Zoom now utilizes an M43 thread at the eyelens end. In order to use the Hyperion Digital T-rings, a new M43 - M54 adapter ring is required.

Reviews

4.6 (Based on 43 Reviews) 95% of reviewers recommended this product.
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    1. Guest

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      Review by Spencer P.
      1521703891
      Mar 22, 2018

      2.0 Lackluster optical performance, and gets stuck after a few years

      Pros:

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I was using my zoom eyepiece tonight and it wouldn't zoom anymore. A quick search on the net found that lots of users are having the same trouble after using the EP for a while. The fix is in the intermediate range, but I haven't attempted yet. There is a risk of losing the 'click' ball when disassembling the lens. Very expensive to send the EP back to Baader in Germany, but the quality of grease used on it tells me that it's made in China with the typical peanut butter Chinese grease.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? No
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by vpierceiii
      1493534800
      Apr 29, 2017

      5.0 Love it!

      Pros:

      Cons:

      Comments:

      Image quality is great....very bright and sharp. Pinpoint stars to the edge. The view is a little narrow at 24mm but doesn't bother me at all....don't really use that magnification much anyway. Mine stays focused throughout the entire zoom range....others that say it isn't parfocal must have gotten a bad egg....mine is great. The convenience of not having to swap EPs constantly is really nice....huge time saver. Very happy with my purchase.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    3. Guest

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      Review by David H.
      1485046198
      Jan 21, 2017

      5.0 Baader Hyperion 8-24mm Clickstop Zoom

      Pros:

      Cons:

      Comments:

      This is a very high quality eyepiece. It works great when using as a 2" eyepiece. The only problem is when you use it as a 1 1/4" eyepiece it is hard to get to the screws tighten it down. It is nice to not have to switch out different eyepieces.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Benjamin S.
      1484340441
      Jan 13, 2017

      5.0 The only non-TV eyepieces I use with my Tele Vue setup!

      Pros:

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I use two of these Hyperion zoomers with my TV Binovue on my 1989 Tele Vue Genesis 104mm refractor. All I can say is...eat your hearts out!

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Nacho of Orlando, FL.
      1477180800
      Oct 22, 2016

      3.0 It is okay

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Strong Construction

      Cons:

      Heavy

      Comments:

      There were so many good reviews that I decided to give this a shot. I had already a Baader 13mm which I consider a great eye piece. I use my 13mm on an Orion Mak 127mm and my reflector AR102. It is definitelly a great eye piece, so why not trying the Zoom version. Well, I've used it on multiple nights and on both scopes and I'm still not convinced. First of all, it is not parafocal for those of you that think it is. You have to re-focus when changing magnification. To me the AFOV it is too narrow and I can only see pin-point stars in the very center of the view. Go past 30% or 40% from the center out and you have spherical aberration. When set to 12mm, close to my other Baader 13mm the view is definitely not the same quality. In the zoom I have more problems focusing and the view is darker and not that great. Lastly, it is more difficult to look thru this eye piece than any of my other eye pieces. You have to really place your eye in the exact place to get a view. So, is it wordy? Well, on the positive side, it is very convenient since you can take your scope out and practically have varios eye pieces in one going from a low magnification using the 24mm position to a high using the 8mm. Did I got a not so good copy? Maybe. It is hard to say for me. However, the judge is still out for me on this eyepiece.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? No
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by duck2k of Fountain Hills, Arizona.
      1463097600
      May 12, 2016

      5.0 A Great Addition!

      Pros:

      Zoom,Baader,Eyepiece

      Cons:

      Comments:

      This eyepiece has thrown a wrench into my collection. Why? I am using the Baader Planetarium MK III Zoom more for my nightly viewing than my other eyepieces. I love the convenience of having five eyepieces in one concept. It is wonderful to go from a low to a high power magnification with a simple twist. The views are crisp and detailed with great contrast. The convenience of using it in a 1.25, or 2 inch optical train. The twist eyecup (and additional eyecup options) is a great feature as well.

      The Baader Planetarium Hyperion MK III Zoom, is a wonderful addition to any eyepiece collection.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    7. mtsheron

      mtsheron New Member

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      Review by Michael of NC.
      1444435200
      Oct 9, 2015

      5.0 The best zoom ever!

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Strong Construction,Quality Lenses

      Cons:

      Comments:

      Have you ever wished you did not need to change constantly your EP's and just view and zoom in at will? Well, this EP is as close as it gets for your all inclusive piece. The optics are some of the best for a zoom and the Baader is top notch in construction. This is my third one for a reason. It will allow the adaptation as well of a DSLR for astrophotography for quick single shots. If you really want to get a singular EP so your not fumbling in the dark for several EP's then give this Baader a try. If you don't like it, they sell really fast on the used market so you really don't lose too much of your investment.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    8. mtsheron

      mtsheron New Member

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      Review by Michael of NC.
      1437436800
      Jul 20, 2015

      5.0 The "King" of zoom EP's

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Strong Construction

      Cons:

      Comments:

      This is my third Baader zoom EP. There is a reason it is. This is my go to EP for the gamut of viewing with just a few other select single EP's. The EP offers a crisp object with the outer perimeter in focus too. I do wish the system would come with the Baader T-Adapter HTA43/T2 for Hyperion Fixed Focal Length and MkIII Zoom Eyepiece for atatching to your DSLR. The click stops are not as pronounced as I remember in the Mark II version. But you can still feel it. The twist up eye cup is great and using in either 1.25" format or 2" as I prefer yields great results in a SCT F/10 system. It is pricey at almost $290 but you get 4 in one. Still one of the best values in astronomy EP's. Well made and versatile.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by toddwess of Fairfax, VA.
      1429660800
      Apr 21, 2015

      5.0 Outstanding

      Pros:

      Accurate,Quality Lenses,Strong Construction,Easy to Use,Lightweight,Compact

      Cons:

      Fov At 24mm

      Comments:

      I have always wanted to have a zoom eyepiece, but it always seems that most bulletin boards say they are not a good choice. I decided to give this one a try because of Agena Astro's excellent sales and satisfaction policy.

      Why did I wait so long? This really is the main eyepiece you will want to have. Most nights out, I use this one, and my 36mm and nothing else. I don't need anything else.

      Para-focal is A PLEASURE!! Oh, I just can't say enough about this eyepiece. Just buy one! :)

      I would have liked a larger FOV at the 24mm setting, but not really a big deal. Just wanted to mention it.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by SteveC of Charlotte NC.
      1391817600
      Feb 7, 2014

      5.0 Amazing piece of equipment

      Pros:

      Strong Construction,Easy to Use,Wide Field of View,Accurate,Quality Lenses,Wide View,Near Focus At All Stops

      Cons:

      Heavy

      Comments:

      A fine lens, Remains close to focus at all click stops fine adjustment is all that is required. Good FOV. Bright. (Need a bright lens with our light pollution). The only real annoyance was it having only an M43 thread. This meant I needed yet another adapter (M43-M54) to attach my Hyperion M54 to Nikon M52 adapter for Afocal pics. Yes it is heavy but it contains a lot of class and metal what do you expect. Maybe they could fill it with helium ;-).

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by fox of Italy.
      1385769600
      Nov 29, 2013

      5.0 Best eyepiece ever

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Quality Lenses,Strong Construction,Accurate,Compact

      Cons:

      Heavy

      Comments:

      I've always loved astronomy and I decided to buy a telescope more or less 4 years ago and I've encountered the problem of all the new astronomers: to buy accessories. Instead of buying several eyepieces I just bought this zoom and have all the quality of Baader with the convenience of bringing around only one eyepiece.
      No aberrations, very light and easy to use. Thanks to a ring adapter I've matched my reflex to this Zoom, all plugged in the telescope, beautiful experience!

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Nick K of Near Austin, Texas.
      1385769600
      Nov 29, 2013

      5.0 Baader Mk III Zoom Eyepiece

      Pros:

      Positive Click-stops,Strong Construction,Quality Lenses,Helpful Accessories,Good Fov Contrast,Accurate,Great Value,Parfocal,Easy to Use,View Sharp To Edges

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I use this zoom eyepiece with a Celestron NexStar 102GT. Slightly on the heavy side but well worth it given the fact that you have several eyepieces rolled into one without having to change out eyepieces. Quality lens gives nice contrast and sharp view to the edges. Comes with adapter rings, both dust caps, and protective bag.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Poncho of Saskatchewan, Canada.
      1385769600
      Nov 29, 2013

      4.0 Very good purchase.

      Pros:

      Quality Lenses,Strong Construction

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I purchased this eyepiece because winter is setting in and as I leaned last year switching out optics with temps well below freezing is not my idea of fun. I am happy to say this EP has really helped to solve that problem as I can simply drop the EP in and rotate it to the different mags I want with mitts or gloves on. It rotates smooth and clicks to let you know where it's at.

      I didn't give this a 5 star because the instructions should be better. I have a few different rubber pieces that came with it, and not sure what to do with them.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Outback Joe of Brisbane, Australia.
      1380412800
      Sep 28, 2013

      4.0 Will I ever buy another eyepiece!

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Quality Lenses,Strong Construction,Lots of Options

      Cons:

      Hard To Find Adaptors

      Comments:

      I am mostly into astrophotography rather than visual astronomy, and tend to be impatient! I bought the Baader Hyperion zoom eyepiece as it is far quicker to locate objects (or my target position in space) using the zoom function, compared to continuously swapping from low power to higher power eyepieces. Surprisingly I have found the optical quality of the zoom eyepiece to be as good as some of my normal eyepieces!
      I also like the fact that due to the various adaptors this eyepiece can be used on both 2" and 1.25" focusers.
      The one thing I have found to be a bit daunting and confusing is if trying to buy adaptor / spacer rings and such there is such a large number of Baader "bits" which fit the Hyperion range that it is tough to find the right one for your requirement which fits/is the correct one for the zoom eyepiece.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Jeff of Fort Collins, CO.
      1375747200
      Aug 5, 2013

      5.0 Worth the $$

      Pros:

      Accurate,Quality Lenses,Strong Construction,Easy to Use

      Cons:

      Comments:

      All in one eyepiece! Excellent quality!

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    16. Guest

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      Review by Heaven's Declare of Mississippi.
      1369958400
      May 30, 2013

      5.0 My go to eyepiece

      Pros:

      Quality Lenses,Strong Construction,Easy to Use

      Cons:

      Comments:

      This eyepiece is fantastic. I use it with my 6" SCT. It is very solid and highly modular. I recently purchased the Canon camera mount that attaches to eyepiece itself. I use this eyepiece 95% of the time I use my scope.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    17. Guest

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      Review by Jeff Bosworth of Altair IV Observatory - Amelia, OH.
      1361232000
      Feb 18, 2013

      5.0 My Favorite Eyepiece!

      Pros:

      Accurate,Quality Lenses,Easy to Use

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I have a lot of good eyepieces by various manufacturers but I resisted buying a zoom eyepiece because I'd heard they were a compromise on quality for the convenience of multiple focal lengths. Being a big fan of Baader filters, I decided to take the plunge with this zoom strictly on the basis of Baader's reputation. I liked that it has a semi-modular design allowing use in both 1.25" and 2" star diagonals. There were also some accessories I could get to turn it into an afocal imaging device.

      I was not disappointed in any way. I've used it mostly in its 2" configuration and my first test was with Jupiter. It was a pleasure to align on Jupiter and focus with the 24mm setting and then simply twist down to 8mm with virtually no need to refocus! Views are very sharp and colors are clean and bright.

      I have purchased the accessory that allows the eyepiece to attach directly to a t-adapter but haven't had the chance to try it.

      Since I put this on my scope I haven't felt a need to remove it. It has become my favorite eyepiece.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    18. Guest

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      Review by luke of New Zealand.
      1360368000
      Feb 8, 2013

      4.0 Great quality for a decent price.

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Accurate,Quality Lenses,Strong Construction,Compact

      Cons:

      Comments:

      The lens is a good quality for a decent price. Reliable seller.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    19. Guest

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      Review by Mark of San Diego.
      1346112000
      Aug 27, 2012

      5.0 The best zoom eyepiece I have ever owned

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Strong Construction,Quality Lenses

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I have been an amateur astronomer for nearly 30 years and have owned all sorts of telescopes and eyepieces from cheap Kelners to expensive Naglers. I bought this eyepiece because I observed with Hyperion eyepieces before and was impressed with their image quality. I also liked the fact that this eyepiece comes with both 2" and 1.25" barrels as I have telescopes that use both.
      The first one I ordered arrived the next day, but it had a blemish on the lens so I called Agena. Agena sent me a new one that same day without even waiting for me to send the first one back. The second Mark III arrived the next day and passed my inspection. Agena also sent a mailing label so I could send back the blemished eyepiece free of charge. Overall I was very pleased with Agena's customer service.
      So far I have used this eyepiece in my 10-inch f/4.5 dob and my 6-inch f/8 refracter. I comapaired the image quality to that of my speers-waller series 2 eyepieces and was pleased on all acounts. Stars were sharp to the edge in my refracter and near edge in my fast dob. Image detail on the moon was noticeably better in the Mark III, but the speers-waller was slightly better on saturn. On deep-sky objects such as M-13, M-27 & M-57 I could see no difference or they may have been slightly brighter in the Mark III.
      The AFOV of the Mark III is superior to any other zoom eyepiece I have used, especially at the higher magnifications. I love this eyepiece for observing the moon and easily switching between magnifications.
      If you are looking for the convenience of a zoom eyepiece without having to compromise on image quality then this is the one for you.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Tony of Indiana.
      1341187200
      Jul 1, 2012

      5.0 Excellent purchase

      Pros:

      Quality Lenses,Easy to Use

      Cons:

      Heavy

      Comments:

      I bought this eyepiece despite a few warnings from people about zoom eyepieces. I'm glad I went with my gut and got this anyway. The views are narrower than some eyepieces, but the ease of use more than makes up for that. I use this with a 10" Dob, and being able to zoom out, find a target, then zoom back in for a higher detail view is amazing!

      It really is almost like I have a whole new telescope. This eyepiece has been almost the only one I've used since I purchased it.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Steven V of West Palm Beach, FL.
      1339891200
      Jun 16, 2012

      5.0 Impressive eyepiece

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Quality Lenses,Accurate

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I bought this eyepiece about a year while building my telescope and finally got to use it last night for "first light." The eyepiece was everything I had hoped for. Mars was a little difficult to make out but Saturn was impressive. I could clearly see the rings as well as the shadow the rings made on the plannet. My next purchase will be a 2x Barlow to use with this eyepiece. My telescope has an 8" primary mirror manufactures by Ostahowski Optics.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Astronewb of Canton, CT.
      1326153600
      Jan 9, 2012

      5.0 My go-to EP

      Pros:

      Accurate,Quality Lenses

      Cons:

      Comments:

      This EP has quickly become my favorite. I use it in an 80mm Refactor, a 6" Mak-Newt and a 14" Dob. The ability to change from a 24mm to a 12mm with a couple of turns of the ring is great. No more changing EPs..dropping EPs..trying to fine EPs in the dark..well, you get the picture. The zoom is not perfectly parfocal..it requires minimum adjustment between zoom settings, but it is a great zoom eyepiece, imho. The Baader quality is outstanding.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Star Gazer of Bandera, Texas.
      1324080000
      Dec 16, 2011

      4.0 Very good, but not perfect zoom eyepiece

      Pros:

      T-2 thread capability,Quality Lenses,Easy to Use,Strong Construction

      Cons:

      Complex adapters,Difficult To Focus

      Comments:

      This zoom eyepiece is a good performer. Image quality is excellent. It's not too heavy, either. Fields of view are very good for a zoom. In addition, you can buy optional adapters to attach T-2 threaded tubes to both ends. This allows you to do eyepiece projection CCD photography with a mechanically stiff connection between the telescope and the camera, reducing flexure and image blurring. Cons include slight focus shift when zooming, reduced field of view at 24 mm setting (with a fuzzy edge), and additional back focus path length requirement compared to many other eyepieces.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by Stargazer Rick of Snoqualmie, WA.
      1320796800
      Nov 8, 2011

      5.0 This zoom eyepiece is a star!

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Accurate,Compact,Strong Construction,Quality Lenses

      Cons:

      Heavy

      Comments:

      I have been using this zoom eyepiece in my 8 inch Meade Dob. With a solar filter the sunspots have been very exiting to watch, this lens allows me to see the whole solar disc at once and then zoom in on just the spot or spots I want to see more closely. The clarity is fantastic, I'm seeing details as never before with my lower quality lenses. You definitely get what you pay for with this lens!
      The only negative I can think of is that it is a bit heavy, but this high quality lens is large with a lot of glass - you have to expect it to have some heft. A balancing weight on the bottom of my scope solves this issue.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Review by AhBok of Tennessee.
      1320451200
      Nov 4, 2011

      5.0 Best of the 8-24mm Zooms

      Pros:

      Quality Lenses,Strong Construction

      Cons:

      Heavy

      Comments:

      I purchased this as a zoom to locate guide stars, determine best magnification, etc. However, it can easily replace several eyepieces in one's collection and not give up much at all in terms of quality. Other the the narrow field of view at the low power end, this may well be better than many single focal length premium eyepieces.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    26. HawaiiAstro

      HawaiiAstro New Member

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      Review by Tiebreaker of Maine.
      1320451200
      Nov 4, 2011

      4.0 High Quality Plus Easy to Use!

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Quality Lenses,Strong Construction

      Cons:

      Comments:

      This versatile eyepiece (fits both 1.25" and 2" focusers plus cameras with adapters) has replaced three of my fixed focal length eyepieces. Almost all of the field of view is sharp even in a fast f/4.7 reflector. It's great not having to change eyepieces in the middle of a viewing session. The twist-up eyecup is helpful. The click-stops lets you know exactly how much magnification you're looking at. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is due to the field of view at the longer focal lengths.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
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      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    27. Guest

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      Review by DaytonDennis of Dayton, Ohio.
      1320278400
      Nov 2, 2011

      5.0 Great, versatile eyepiece

      Pros:

      Accurate,Strong Construction,Easy to Use,Quality Lenses

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I'm a novice astronomer and purchased this eyepiece and found it to be a wonderful investment. I was hesitant about getting a "zoom" as they are normally never quite as sharp as "prime" eye piece, but I've had great views all the way from 8 to 24mm. It's very best range is from 8 to 16mm as 20 and 24 aren't quite as sharp. Very convenient not have to fumble around with multiple eyepieces. I DID have a minor issue with the eypepiece being a bit "sluggish" when changing views. Didn't realize it was quite so bad until I met a guy with the same eyepiece. He told me to get in touch with Agena as it should move much smoother than it was. I did that and Agena has been fantastic in customer service. I had a new (SMOOTH) eyepiece in my hands in a matter of days. Very impressed with the eyepiece as well as the customer service. Will definitely be shopping here again. I would highly recommend the lens and the seller. I am a picky buyer and rarely give such good reviews. Talking with customer service can often be a nightmare but it quite the opposite in my case. That means almost as much as the product in my view.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    28. Guest

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      Review by Astrocat48 of Seguin, TX.
      1319932800
      Oct 29, 2011

      4.0 Should have started here!

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Versatile,Quality Lenses

      Cons:

      Heavy

      Comments:

      This eyepiece is all it's cracked up to be. If I could start over my collection of eyepieces would start with this one. I recomend this eyepiece to use regularly and help to determine what eyepieces you may want to add to your collection.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    29. Guest

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      Review by turing test of suburban Philadelphia, PA.
      1319932800
      Oct 29, 2011

      5.0 Most-used eyepiece

      Pros:

      Easy to Use,Quality Lenses,Strong Construction

      Cons:

      Comments:

      This is my most frequently used eyepiece. The high quality, sharp images, and convenience win out. Zoom motion is smooth, continuously variable, and stable. Definitely consider this in lieu of a handful of Plossls. Image quality is very good, except at the far edge of the range (8x and 24x) where it is merely good.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    30. Guest

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      Review by pedalmasher of Seminole, FL.
      1306627200
      May 28, 2011

      5.0 I love this eyepiece!

      Pros:

      Strong Construction,Quality Lenses,Accurate

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I was searching or a zoom EP for my Celestron 8SE telescope with excellent optics and high quality. I read endless reviews and the Hyperion constantly received rave reviews from users. I purchased one, and it is everything that I had hoped it would be. Excellent, high quality construction and super optics. Since getting this EP, my Celestron EP kit is relegated to sitting in the corner - I never use anything else. I only wish I had two of them in that I am continually moving the EP between my two telescopes.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    31. Guest

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      Review by Glenmar of Paramus, New Jersey.
      1294012800
      Jan 2, 2011

      5.0 Top of the Class!

      Pros:

      Quality Lenses,Accurate

      Cons:

      Comments:

      The widest apparent field at any price. Excellent par focus. Attractive look.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    32. Guest

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      Review by Rocketman of Port Chester, NY.
      1294012800
      Jan 2, 2011

      5.0 Great Eyepiece

      Pros:

      Strong Construction,Quality Lenses

      Cons:

      Comments:

      Great eyepiece I use it with all my scopes. I don't have to take out all my other eyepieces. I just use this one it works great in my 8'' intelliscope reflector for aligning guide stars. I don't have to keep switching out eyepieces. I love it!

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    33. Guest

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      Review by Dave of Pennsylvania.
      1260057600
      Dec 5, 2009

      5.0 I love this eyepiece

      Pros:

      Accurate,Strong Construction,Quality Lenses

      Cons:

      Comments:

      The Baader Hyperion Zoom works great on my nexstar 8se. Since purchasing this zoom I hardly ever remove it from my scope for another lense. Great views and very comfortable eye relief.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    34. eklf

      eklf New Member

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      Review by eklf of Carrboro, NC.
      1257724800
      Nov 8, 2009

      5.0 Very Nice Eyepiece.

      Pros:

      Accurate,Quality Lenses,Compact,Strong Construction

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I got interested in this product after using (and loving) Hyp 17mm. The promise of infinite increment within a range of Fls was enticing.
      The eyepiece does not disappoint. The zoom, like the rest of hyperion line, is of high quality. Construction is solid and premium, glass and coatings seem super. The mechanical design is very smooth with just the right amount of tension. The eyepiece is not excessively heavy. Eye relief is very comrfortable (allthough I don't wear eyeglasses, I like generous eye relief, and this eyepeice does not dissapoint).

      The performance is superb. Very nice edge correction, high contrast and sharp on axis. Off axis showed only the slight coma of my f5 mirror (any eyepeice-induced astigmatism is probably very low). In practice it seemed on par with my 17mm hyperion.

      The zoom function works very well and effortlessly. The performance remains very nice over the entire range. The eyerelief did not change detectably. It barlows very well- and is a great planetary eyepeice. Purists scoff at complex multi element wide angle designs for planetary, but I find a superwide FOV more pleasurable. The lens coating is neutral - which is, again, very pleasurable to me. Stratus and Televue plossls tend to give the moon a slight brown/yellow tint that I dislike. This eyepeice, like the other hyperions, gives a nice, cool neutral white tone to the moon. My only quibble (very personal and very minor) is that the fieldstop is fuzzy at the 24mm setting. By 20mm it sharpes appreciably, and after 16 all the way to 8mm it is solid and well defined. Most people will not notice this, but it is my personal peeve.

      All in all, a great eyepiece with no detectable loss of performance that is generally thought to plague zooms. This eyepeice along with a good barlow would be a great all-round combination. Add a 24mm superwide eyepiece and this is all that most people would need for 99% of viewing.

      Highly satisfied and highly recommended.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    35. shardik

      shardik New Member

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      Review by Shardik of Fort Collins, CO.
      1257724800
      Nov 8, 2009

      4.0 Best zoom I've used

      Pros:

      Convenient,Strong Construction,Versatile,Quality Lenses,Easy to use

      Cons:

      FOV at lowest power

      Comments:

      I got this EP for use at public astronomy events, where time is often at a premium. I can find a target, zoom to the best magnification, and have folks viewing much faster than trying to swap EPs all the time. I'm also glad to leave my personal personal EPs (Nagler and Nagler-class) in the case at a public event.

      But I was happily surprised at the quality of the image this EP delivers. Even in my 12.5" f/5 Newtonian the field is crisp and contrasty edge-to-edge. I've found I often use this EP for personal observing; it is perfectly acceptable for many objects, and I frequently don't bother to swap in my premium EPs. Of course, when I'm eking out the last shred of contrast and/or detail, or need that space-walk FOV, the high-end EPs can't be topped.

      Mechanically, this EP is superb. The click-stops are positive but not too stiff so changing the zoom level is effortless. The soft rubber eye cup rotates to extend. The lens is hefty compared to single-FL EPs, but not so much as to cause balance problems with a Dob. Weight can be a question with a long refractor on a lighter GEM, but that's easily accommodated.

      Eye-relief is good; you can use eyeglasses even at high power.

      At the lower powers, the reduced FOV is a potential draw-back. This is exactly where you /want/ a wide FOV. But it's still right in there with Plossls, so this isn't a big problem. As you increase the magnification, the FOV quickly expands, so that at 8mm it's really very generous.

      I do have a couple of minor beefs.

      First, the FOV at 24mm is almost identical to the FOV at 20mm. That last bit of low-power zoom is practically useless. They could have designed and sold this as an 8mm->20mm without losing much. Or, possibly, they could have given up the 20mm->24mm range in favor of squeezing out another millimeter or two at the high-power end (but this is just speculation; I'm no optical designer!).

      Second, there is a tendency for this EP to pick up stray light from the side. This creates a dim but distracting arc of light along the barrel at the top; it does not intrude on the image. Extending the eye-cup greatly diminishes this effect, but may not be possible if you use eyeglasses. Of course, if your site has no intruding direct light, it is no issue at all.

      In short, I'm impressed with the performance and value of this zoom. I'd sworn I'd never get a zoom due to their "well-known" optical compromises, but this one delivers a lot with few compromises. If you're looking for a zoom EP in this range, you won't go wrong with it.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    36. Guest

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      Review by Wes of Atlantic Beach, FL.
      1257724800
      Nov 8, 2009

      5.0 A do-it-all eyepiece!

      Pros:

      Strong Construction,Precise feel,Quality Lenses,Accurate

      Cons:

      Comments:

      I recently sold a Vixen zoom of similar range simply because I just didn't care for it in any scope I tried it in. This eyepiece works wonderfully in everything I try it in- from my Lunt 60mm Ha scope- to refractors and reflectors. The feel is like that of a Mercedes or Porsche- feels like extreme high quality. No dimming of image at higher magnifications. This one's a keeper!

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    37. Tank

      Tank New Member

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      1251950160
      Sep 2, 2009

      5.0 Baader Hyperion Zoom 8-24mm

      Pros:

      All FL from 8-24, Large AFOV, Great contrast.

      Cons:

      24mm setting is same FOV as a 24mm Plossl, is that a con?

      Comments:

      Just a fantastic eyepiece! I thought that zooms can't be as good as fixed eyepieces but I was wrong. This one here does a great job on everything!

      I compared the 20mm setting to a TV 20mm plossl and I received the same result. I compared my fixed 8mm Hyperion which is great and I came to the conclusion that the zoom is easier to focus and puts up a better image. Note that the fixed Hyperion does seem to have a slightly larger FOV.
      AFOV
      8mm = 72 degree
      12mm = 60 degree
      16mm = 54 degree
      20mm = 50 degree
      24mm = 44 degree

      This is a great eyepiece for the beginner to advanced astronomer. It's a keeper. Highly recommended.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No
    38. Guest

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      Review by cwd10 of Central Pennsylvania.
      1249603200
      Aug 6, 2009

      3.0 Nice item, but...

      Pros:

      Quality Lenses,Strong Construction

      Cons:

      Very expensive,Over tight locking ring,No instructions

      Comments:

      The optics are very good, and the finish is nice. I especially like the fact that these are modular, and you can fit several accessories to them. Now for the problems. The first one I noticed was that there was no instruction sheet or manual. The next problem was that the locking ring for the nosepiece was extremely tight, and wouldn't budge in either direction. This was exacerbated by the fact that no instructions were provided to assure the user what direction to go. Yes I did turn it correctly the first time, but you begin second guessing yourself when this happens. It was so tight that I had to do the unthinkable, and use channel locks to free it. It worked, but I slightly marred the paint on the ring. This was all a hassle that I didn't need. Especially with the money spent on this thing. Sure I could have called customer service at Baader or Agena, but I should not have to. These problems should not have happend in the first place. Overall I'm satisfied with the unit, but my experience with it has been soured.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    39. rickrian

      rickrian New Member

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      1248782640
      Jul 28, 2009

      5.0 Baader Hyperion 8-24mm Zoom EP

      Pros:

      One great EP.

      Cons:

      It is a bit on the bulky side.

      Comments:

      This is a wonderful zoom EP and far sharper on axis and off than the fixed focal length Hyperions. I have no idea how Baader managed to make this happen, but the Hyperion Zoom is an excellent eyepiece competing favorably with quality fixed focal length units. I believe it’s the best value on he market today and with the ‘modest price tag’ is the best money I’ve ever spent in this hobby. The Hyperion zoom has a very sharp image and contrast at its 20mm setting. My TV 20mm plossl gives very much the same fov and the Hyperion zoom's sharp image and contrast at its 20mm setting. At 8mm, it’s a different story … the zoom leaves the plossl far behind providing porthole immersive - 70ish widefield view. This observation shatters the myth about fixed focal length eyepieces supposedly always being better that what a zoom has to offer. It will be most beneficial especially to new comers to the hobby who want to find a good alternative to expensive fixed focal length eyepieces. The Baader Hyperion 8-24mm zoom is the one, the great alternative eyepiece.

      Highly recommended!

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No
    40. MAK7

      MAK7 New Member

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      Review by Brad in Phoenix of Phoenix, AZ.
      1243468800
      May 27, 2009

      4.0 Excellent Value

      Pros:

      Strong Construction,5 Stars vs the others,Quality Lenses

      Cons:

      Field of view

      Comments:

      I bought this as an a alignment EP for my 18 inch Dob. Great to zoom in for a close alignment. Found I sometimes leave it in the focuser after aligning as it has great optics. Was impressed it did more than I bought it for and seems to have the normal Baader optics, known for good value and clarity of view. Great purchase for me!!!

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
      Was this review helpful? Yes / No

      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    41. Guest

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      Review by craterdavy of Industry, Maine.
      1243468800
      May 27, 2009

      5.0 Great eyepiece

      Pros:

      Strong Construction,Quality Lenses,Very smooth zooming

      Cons:

      None

      Comments:

      Better field of view than a standard plossl. It's like having every eyepiece between 8+24mm.,,I rarely use any other eyepiece now.,combine this eyepiece with a good barlow.,.,and a good low power eyepiece ,.and you have all the bases covered,.,

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
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      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    42. Guest

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      Review by The Collimator of Gunnison, CO.
      1243382400
      May 26, 2009

      4.0 Don't hesitate, just buy it

      Pros:

      Quality Lenses,Compact,Strong Construction,Accurate

      Cons:

      Not really parfocal

      Comments:

      Astronomical zoom technology has arrived and this particular eyepiece lives up to almost all of the manufacturer's promises. In fact, I seldom take out other lenses once I got this clickstop zoom. This ocular even holds up well with a 2x Barlow. I also have a Baader Hyperion 13 mm lens, but I generally now stick a filter on it for specialized viewing, and first set my clickstop for "12" (the factory stop) before switching. A nudge on the focuser and I'm there. And I love that I can start at 24mm for a wider sweep and then easily change to a different setting for the optimum viewing strength for any given target. I'd only fault the lens in noting that it's not really parfocal for the clickstops (you need to finetune each time you switch to a different factory click setting), but that only requires a small adjustment and is still much easier than changing out to a different lens. The strongest setting on the clickstop of 8mm is just a bit more than my 'scope can handle, but this may be more a limitation of my 10-inch 'scope. On the other hand, the 12 setting is superb (you can also ignore clickstops and "max out" your own 'scope's viewing limitations manually). I don't care -- the quality and convenience of this eyepiece offsets that high-end limitation for my own light bucket. This is a great eyepiece, and would be at any price.

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
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      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

    43. Guest

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      Review by Bob K. of Waco, TX.
      1236729600
      Mar 10, 2009

      5.0 Only eyepiece I use most nights.

      Pros:

      Generally sharp,Great Eye Relief,Strong Construction

      Cons:

      Comments:

      For the price, it's 5 stars! I bought this eyepiece because it has comfortable eye relief throughout the range. The eye relief on the 10mm plossl that came with my 8" Dob was painfully short. My wife, who must wear glasses to observe, could not see much, and I got tired of taking my glasses off and on.

      The field stop is not distinct above 20mm. There is minor loss of sharpness at 8mm. Otherwise, it gives a very sharp image. It barlows very well: on a decent night I've seen six stars in the Trapezium very distinctly at 300x (8mm with 2x barlow).

      The zoom feature is fun to use on the moon and very useful on open clusters and globular clusters--zooming in darkens the sky and combats light pollution. My observing friends refer to this as "the nice eyepiece."

      Bottom Line: Would you recommend this item? Yes
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      This review was provided courtesy of AgenaAstro.com

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      Specifications

      Apparent Field of View 68°
      Barrel Size 1.25" (31.7mm) and 2" (50.8mm)
      Bolt Case Included Yes - Free Agena Eyepiece Container
      Bolt Case Size Agena 65x120mm
      Coatings Fully Broadband Multi-Coated (Phantom Group)
      End Caps 3
      Eye Relief by Design 12-15mm
      Filter Threads Standard 1.25" (M28.5 x 0.6) and 2" (M48 x 0.75) Filter Thread
      Focal Length 8mm
      Lens Elements 7
      Rubber Eye Guard Yes (Retractible Eyecup)
      Blackened Lens Edges Yes
      Manufacturer Baader Planetarium
      Eyepiece Focal Length Variable Range
      Eyepiece Field of View 61 - 70 degrees
      Eyepiece Series Baader Hyperion
      Barrel Type With safety undercut